I spent three days in London, and even though I had been looking forward to visiting the British capital for a long time, I left with the feeling that this is a city I will probably never return to. It didn't leave anything in me that would make me want to come back, even though I gave it space, time, and an open mind. London is a place you either love or hate – and I think I know where I stand. Plus, I have other places to compare it to.However, I caught a lot of flak for this opinion on another travel website. How dare I not like London! On the other hand, there were a few comments that agreed with me. I am practically just starting out with traveling, as much as my job and finances allow. I would love to travel all the time, and I believe that one day I will make it happen, but right now I am at the beginning and have responsibilities that I can't avoid for the time being. I have only been to a few destinations so far, whereas some people already have dozens, if not over a hundred, countries on their list.But my visit to London and my feelings about it were purely subjective. Some people love that city, some love Vietnam just like I do, but I know people who went there for the first time and will never go back. And yet, I am not going to lynch someone just because they dare to dislike my Vietnam! I have so many journeys ahead of me and so much to learn, but I respect the opinions of others.
What surprised me most about London was its chaos and run-down feel. I expected a vibrant metropolis, but the reality was different – a massive amount of litter, messy streets, and a dirty environment that felt more oppressive than cosmopolitan. I was also surprised by how difficult it is to find a restroom when you need one, find an available public toilet, or even charge your phone. Basic things that work automatically in other major cities are a struggle here. I am not saying Prague doesn't have its flaws :). But again, I must emphasize that this is purely my subjective feeling; maybe I just visited London at the wrong time and perhaps I will give it another chance someday. I am not writing it off completely.
On top of that, I often didn’t feel completely safe in the evenings. Some neighborhoods felt sketchy, empty, or unpleasant, and the city as a whole gave off a strange, unwelcoming vibe. Encountering a guy in a store holding a large screwdriver, clearly under the influence of illicit drugs, or a man wearing a black balaclava peering into a shop, well….Yes, I knew London was extremely expensive – that didn’t surprise me. However, I was surprised that the high prices didn't match the quality at all, especially when it came to food. I practically couldn’t find good cuisine there. What you pay simply doesn’t reflect the taste, service, or overall experience. On the whole, we found the food rather bland, under-seasoned, and lacking imagination. Or maybe I’m just so poor that I couldn't afford a better culinary experience :D.
The British Museum was pretty cool. Admission is free, you just need to book your tickets in advance. Personally, I have visited the top-tier museum in Cairo, the one in Prague (yes, the National Museum), and the museum in Berlin – now that one was a real banger.
We also walked through a few parks, which felt nicely ordinary to us. I simply love places like Stromovka or Grébovka in Prague CZE – lots of seating, peace, quiet, and a true oasis. Of course, I got scolded on the travel website for this, with people asking what more I could possibly expect from a park. I just missed having some benches or trash cans there.But to be fair, London obviously has its bright sides too. The Natural History Museum was amazing – huge, engaging, and without a doubt well worth a visit. The British Museum is a beautiful building in its own right. And classic landmarks like Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, or Tower Bridge possess a unique power and atmosphere; that is indisputable. We truly enjoyed those moments.Overall, however, the dominant impression was that this city just isn't for me. The overcrowded streets, the mess, the high prices, and the lack of a welcoming atmosphere meant that London will remain a one-time experience rather than a place I would ever long to return to. But who knows, maybe I’ll give it one more shot.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many days are enough for London?
For a first visit to London, we would recommend at least 3 days. You can manage the basics in 2 days, but the pace will be fast. If you also want to visit museums, markets, or neighborhoods outside the absolute city center, 4 to 5 days is ideal.
Can you manage London in a weekend?
Yes, London can be managed in a weekend if you choose only the main spots in advance. It is best not to overplan and instead focus on the center, a walk along the Thames, Westminster, Tower Bridge, and one or two neighborhoods depending on your interests.
What should you not miss during a first visit to London?
On a first visit, it is well worth seeing Westminster, Big Ben, the London Eye, Tower Bridge, the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, and taking a walk along the Thames. If you have more time, add Camden, Notting Hill, Greenwich, or some of the museums.
Is London expensive?
Yes, London is among the more expensive European cities. The biggest expenses are usually accommodation, transport, and food. On the other hand, many museums are free, and many interesting spots can be explored on foot without paying any admission fees.
What is the best way to get around London?
The easiest way is a combination of the Tube (subway), buses, and walking. The London Underground is fast and well-marked, but for shorter transfers, it is often worth walking because famous landmarks in the center are relatively close to each other.
Is London suitable for a first independent trip?
Yes, London is suitable even for a first trip without a tour agency. The city is well-marked, transport is easy to navigate, and you can generally get by with English without any complications. It is just good to expect higher prices in advance.
Who is London suitable for?
For travelers who want to combine historic sights, city atmosphere, markets, museums, parks, and diverse neighborhoods. London is a great choice for a weekend getaway, a first trip to Great Britain, or a short stopover with cheap flights.
